Protective Effects of Quercetin Against 3.5 GHz RF Radiation-Induced Thyroid Dysfunction and Oxidative Stress in Rats

Abstract

The global expansion of 5 G communication networks has heightened concerns about the biological effects of high-frequency radiofrequency (RF) radiation, particularly on endocrine organs such as the thyroid gland. This study investigated the effects of 3.5 GHz RF radiation on thyroid hormone levels and oxidative stress markers in male Wistar rats and assessed the potential protective role of quercetin, a natural antioxidant. Twenty-eight rats were randomly assigned to four groups: Sham, RF, Quercetin, and RF + Quercetin. RF exposure was administered at 3.5 GHz (2 W) for 2 hours/day, 5 days/week, for 30 days. Quercetin (20 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally. Serum levels of T3, T4, and TSH, as well as thyroid tissue levels of TAS, TOS, GSH, and MDA, were analyzed using ELISA. RF exposure significantly decreased T3 and T4, increased TSH, elevated MDA and TOS, and reduced TAS and GSH levels. Quercetin treatment showed trends toward reversing some of these effects, although not all changes reached statistical significance. SAR simulations confirmed higher energy absorption in the thyroid region (average SAR: 1.128 W/kg). These findings suggest that 3.5 GHz RF radiation may impair thyroid function and redox homeostasis, and that quercetin may exert limited biochemical protection, though further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy. Further long-term molecular studies are warranted to elucidate the mechanisms involved.